Kerala Has It All

The Title itself says it has all that You Need for Your Travel Destination. Kerala Believed to be GOD’S Own Country and is also known as “The Origin of Ayurveda's”.

Kerala has all i.e. Mountains, Valleys, Lakes, Rivers, Beaches, Forest, Palaces, Forts etc. you think of it you get it.

Kerala is on the southwestern Malabar Coast of India, spread over 38,863 km2 (15,005 sq mi), Kerala is the twenty-third largest Indian state by area. Kerala was formed as a State by combining Malayalam-speaking states of Travancore-Cochin and Madras on 1 November 1956. Surrounded by Karnataka to the north and northeast, Tamil Nadu to the east and south, and the Lakshadweep Sea to the west.

Kerala is renowned for its unique geographical characteristic along with some Natural wonders and atmosphere that keeps changing and is attracting Tourists from Around the World for Centuries. Kerala’s favorable climate is a source of a wide variety of plants and herbs with medicinal value. The reason behind it is abundant sunshine, fertile soil and rainfall. The Gift of GOD in the form of Ayurveda for the Well-being of Human and the Unique Art that reflects in Sculptures and Monuments built across the State. Kerala has been a prominent spice exporter since 3000 BCE.

History of Kerala Ayurveda.

The Hindu God of Ayurveda is “Dhanvantari” believed to be avatar of Lord MahaVishnu. It is believed during “SAMUDRAMANTHAN” Lord Dhanvantari arouse from the “OCEAN OF MILK” with the nectar of immortality. Ayurveda is a part of one of the four Vedas called Atharva Veda, originated in India almost 5000 years ago when the Vedas introduced its concept. It is a holistic system of healing and is divided into 8 parts called the Ashtvaidyans.

• Ayurveda is also said to be the Upveda of Atharva Veda, which deals with treatment of ailments using natural herbs and processes.

• The treatments offered by Ayurveda are natural and carry no side effects.

The eight branches of Ayurveda:-
• Kaya Chikitsa – General Medicine.
• Bala Roga Chikitsa – Paediatrics.
• Graha Chikitsa – Treatment for evil spirits.
• Urdwanga tantra – E.N.T & Ophthalmology
• Shalya Chikitsa – Surgery
• Visha Chikitsa – Toxicology
• Rasayana Chikitsa – Rejuvenation Therapy
• Vajeekarana Chikitsa – Aphrodisiacs.

After briefing about Kerala and Ayurveda, let’s come to the main Highlights where every reader has his or her eyes on. The Travel Destinations that attract people from all over the world to Kerala.

Mountains.

The Western Ghats, also known as Sahyadri (Benevolent Mountains), surrounding Kerala has no doubt a wonderful collection of hill stations. It’s always a Pleasure to view the Lush Green Mountains with Tea, Coco and Spice Farms across. Intersecting the Mountains with small rivers and huge waterfalls and thick forest surround is a memory to collect. The ever changing Atmosphere in this region is a treat to enjoy, so if you want to meditate, retreat and calm your souls upon, well then Kerala’s hill stations are the perfect place. Here is a List of few popular hill stations for Travelers Delight.

Munnar

1. Munnar.
Munnar nestled at the concurrence of three rivers is one of the beautiful hill stations of Kerala about 1600m above sea level. Exceptional shades of green, rotating tea-planted hills and fog is a perfect place to relax or rejuvenate. So don’t just complete your journey only in the city, as there are various places that encircle Munnar with spellbinding scenery some of them are: Pothamadu, Devikulam, Pallivasal, Attukal, Nyaymakad and Mattupetty with its large picturesque grace, waterfalls, trekking trails, lakes and dams.

2. Thekkady.
Another hill station in Idukki District, Thekkady, is a perfect place to refreshed or relaxed and to discover the Spice Gardens and Wildlife of Kerala.
The main attraction is the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (home of many elephants) Travelers can have elephant safaris, boat cruise on the Periyar Lake. Visit to the Spice Gardens is a must.

3. Ponmudi.
Ponmudi, a small scenic hill station of Kerala situated about 61kms from Thiruvananthapuram. Well known for its breath-taking sight, beautiful weather and countryside view with valleys, rivers, mountains and forests.
Ponmudi is an ideal place for the nature lovers and adventurous lovers as travelers enjoy trekking and hiking here, particularly at the Agasthyarkoodam, the largest peak of the district.

So if you are in Ponmudi then don't forget to explore Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Deer Park, Golden Valley and Meenmutti falls. So no doubt a little less explored.

4. Lakkidi

Lakkidi in Wayanad district is a paradise on earth offers lots of natural beauty, beautiful weather, mesmerizing green environment which no doubt relaxes one’s nerves and surely offers a refreshing experience….

Waterfalls.
The beauty of the mountains is blessed by gigantic waterfalls around which takes your breath with its Mesmerizing view during Monsoon. The luscious Kerala waterfalls are a sight your eyes will never tire of feasting upon. Below are some waterfalls which are Travelers delight.

Adyanpara Waterfalls.
Adyanpara Waterfalls are located in Kurmbalangodu village, 14 kms from Nilambur in Malappuram district, the most relaxing spots in the area. Adyanpara is an excellent spot for a nice swim around and is clean and pure and has had medicinal properties attributed to it.

Arippara Waterfalls.

It is the Iruvanji River that flowing down the rocky hills to form the Arippara Waterfalls, around Kozhikode City. It is an eight level waterfall with SulluKallu,Vattakkuzhi, Nirannapara, Olichuchaattom, Shwasakkuzhi and Neelakkayathadaakam as its companions. The Mesmerizing view is surrounded by places around to simply relax and enjoy Nature to its fullest.

Athirappilly waterfalls.
A mysterious serenity overcomes you when you walk down the stone slabs that lead to the base of the Athirappilly waterfalls. It is the largest waterfall at over 80 ft high of the Sholayar forest ranges, formed by Chalakudy River in the Western Ghats. Located around 63 km from Thrissur district, it is the most famous picnic spot.
Barely 5 km away is another family favourite, Vazhachal Waterfalls. These waterfalls became famous for not just their view but the endemic species found in the surrounding dense forests.

Keezharkuthu Waterfalls.
The Keezharkuthu Waterfall in Idukki is the most Beautiful to watch as you can see a Rainbow gushing forth from over 1500m, this is not something you find in our day to day life.This natural phenomenon can be observed throughout the year. The forest surrounding by has many a medicinal plant that has been used by its tribal inhabitants for centuries. It is naturally endowed with rock formations that make it ideal for a number of enthralling activities that include rock climbing, mountaineering, camping and trekking.

Kanthanpara waterfalls.

The Kanthanpara waterfall is a very small waterfall in Wayanad, is a lesser known destination famous for its secluded and serene vibe. Surrounded by beautiful greenery on all sides, it is worth spending a day a rejuvenating and relaxing in the calming embrace of nature.

Beaches.
After the beautiful waterfalls the next water spot are the beaches and backwaters which form the costal part of Kerala and is exciting travelers from all over the world have a dip and enjoy the Beautiful sunset and sunrise view. The popular once are like Kovalam, Varkala, Chowara, Chavakkad, Nattika, Cherai, Kizhunna, Poovar and the list goes on and on.

Kolavi Palam Beach in Kozhikode at Payyoli is well maintained beaches. Considered a swimmer’s paradise with shallow waters that border Velliyamkallu. During November - December annually, the endangered Olive Ridley turtles come in to lay eggs. ‘Theeram’, a well known nature conservation centre, was started by the fishermen to save these turtles.

Kizhunna Beach is a hidden pearl of the North, offering soft sand and rock formations for travelers to rest upon. Kizhunna is an extremely secluded beach in Kannur,the gentle wind and warm sands make a delightful blend to simply have a relaxing sunbath in the middle of the day.

Kappil Beach and backwaters is situated 7 km away from Varkala. Located close to the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram, people come here to enjoy the scenic backwaters and the various water sports options. The adjacent Kodi Hills offers a breath-taking view of all those who make the trek up the cliff.

Kappad Beach has historic importance in the history of Kerala. Over 500 years ago in 1498, Vasco- da-Gama with his 170 men, first stepped onto Kerala. The spice route flourished through this Beach. The entire State, especially the Malabar Coast, would never be the same again.
A walk in and around the place gives one an idea of its historical relevance. The rocks and small hills add to its charm. Migratory birds can be spotted occasionally as well. Kappad Beach is a truly majestic destination, your visit to Kozhikode is incomplete without a visit to this legendary site.

Kanwatheertha Beach, Kasaragod.

A large formation akin to a swimming pool, in the middle of the sea, is what draws in large number of visitors to Kanwatheertha Beach in Manjeswaram. It’s vast beach is picture perfect for a refreshing dip in the sea, families enjoying the equable climate and lovely sights, the entire time is just memorable.

Wildlife.
Now from the scenic beaches with sunrise glory of Kerala let’s move to the Wildlife diversified across the hilly mountains and plains spread throughout Kerala. There are a number of popular wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala forest of the majestic Western Ghats or Sahyadri Ranges. Kerala has fourteen wildlife sanctuaries, two tiger reserves and six national parks containing protected and endangered species like the Indian Sloth-Bear, Lion-Tailed Macaque, Indian Bison, Bengal Tiger, Nilgiri Tahr etc. These are the most beautiful Wildlife sanctuaries to visit for every traveler.

Periyar Forest {Tiger Reserve}
Thekkady brings in front images of elephants, unending chains of hills and spice scented plantations. Spreads across the hills are spice gardens and tea gardens of Periyar Forest Tiger Reserve, one of the oldest tiger reserves in the country.

Periyar Tiger Reserve Wilderness can be explored by tourists with options like boating or trekking. Periyar lake offers you options between traditional paddle boat, jet boat and the most memorable round bamboo raft boating which attracts most tourist. Round Bamboo Raft boating is a wonderful experience with thick forest trees surrounding the lake, tall mountains and the misty weather which one should not miss.

Trekking Trails Adventure:-
The guided day trek at Periyar: The Periyar Tiger Trail, an adventure trekking and camping; Border Hiking - Protection oriented range hiking; Bamboo Rafting; Jungle Patrol, Shepherding the jungle… are some of the adventure activities carried out in Pariyar Tiger Reserve.

Choolannur Pea Fowl Sanctuary or Mayiladumpara, as it is locally known, is a premier heaven for peacocks in Kerala. Located in Palakkad, Choolannur Pea Fowl Sanctuary has a view of vivid colors and majestic shades of this large pheasant species. At this pristinely maintained heaven, dawn and dusk tend to be the best viewing times.

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary.
Idukki district is among the most naturally endowed districts in Kerala and the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is a prime example. Located about 450-750m above sea level, the sanctuary is cradled by the Cheruthoni and Periyar Rivers. One can see elephants, bison, sambar deer, wild dogs, tiger and wild boar along with various species of snake including cobras, vipers… There are many bird species like the Grey Jungle Fowl, Malabar Grey Hornbill, woodpeckers and bulbuls. The sanctuary lies adjacent to the world famous Idukki Arch Dam. The beautiful lake surrounding the sanctuary is perfect for romantic boat rides.

Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary.
Established in 1973, the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is contiguous to the protected area network of Nagarhole and Bandipur of Karnataka on the north east and Mudumalai of Tamil Nadu on the southeast. The Sanctuary has a large population of pachyderms and has been declared a Project Elephant site tigers are spotted occasionally as well. Elephant rides can be arranged by the Forest Department. It’s a Real Beauty to be in Nature with the ever changing atmosphere and misty foggy surrounding in early morning.

Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary.
A cluster of scenic islands, beautiful hills around Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is a delight for every visitors. One is greeted by the Kadalundi River flowing into the Arabian Sea, this untouched land has over 60 species of migratory birds from across the planet that visiting during different times of the year. One can see seagulls, terns, sandpipers, sand plovers, red and greenshanks and so on, November to April being the ideal viewing time. A small hill nearby gives you a panoramic view of the entire region, while you can sit back and relax. This is indeed a paradise designed especially for bird lovers.

Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary in Kollam is a beautiful natural haven of Southern Kerala, established in 1984 and covers a total area of 171 sq. km. It is the only wildlife sanctuary in the district and is renowned for its biodiversity and beauty. It has a host of trekking trails that takes one on a wonderful journey through these evergreen forests. 

Trekking Trails of Shendurney – Thenmala

The wild forest of Shendurney offers an opportunity to the Eco-tourists to explore the unique beauty of wilderness of Shendurney Forests along two types of trekking programs– Soft trekking and Hard trekking, one can choose according to his or her liking.

Camping at Shendurney.
Wilderness of the Thenmala-Shendurney forests offers camping package and unleash yourself into the wildlife. Idimuzhanganpara Nights is a trekking and camping program where stay has been arranged at a camp near the beautiful reservoir, called the Idimuzhangan camp. Woody Rock wood, another camping program where your hut is situated deep inside the forest giving you a different experience all together.

So from diversified wildlife forest and sanctuary that offer various trekking, camping and boating experience to all travelers and visitors from all over the planet. We move on to the Art forms of Kerala which are basically Performing Arts, Ritual Arts and Martial Arts etc.

Performing Art.
On stage or by the road, the setting is never the primary attraction, but the performing arts of God’s Own Country and artists on stage with their movements, make-up and storytelling steals the spotlight and brings delight and joy among the Audience. For Centuries these Art forms have colorfully presented great epics in its unique style to the Society. These artists and performing arts are the Important Pillars of Kerala’s Rich Heritage. Have listed below some of the finest performing arts prevalent in Kerala.

Few Performing Arts of Kerala.
Ayyappan Vilakku.
Shastham paatu.
Kathakali.
Chakyar Koothu.
Nangiar Koothu.
Mohiniyattam.
Thirayattam.

Padayani.

Ritual Arts of Kerala.

The ritual art forms of Kerala are important cultural benchmarks, from depicting our legends, distinctive traditions, historical yarns and mythical beings, to providing commentary on social injustices in the form of satirical plays and skits. They have moulded the conventions and conversations on our shores for centuries. Listed below are some of the finest ritual arts in God’s Own Country.

Kerala Ritual Art Forms.
THEYYAM. A ritual dance form of Kerala, glorifying the goddess. ...
PATAYANI. ...
POOTHANU MTHIRAYUM. ...
MUDIYETTU. ...
KOOTHU. ...
ARJUNA NIRTHAM. ...
KANNYAR KALI. ...

VELA KALI.

Martial Arts.

There are certain art forms which contain movements similar to martial arts. Kalaripayattu – the martial Artform, Kambadi Kali, Velakali, Poorakkali, Duffmuttu, Sanghakkali, Padayani, Margam Kali etc. come under this category. 

Kerala Cuisines.
Food or cuisine of Kerala is a Delight to the Palate, which brings divine enlightenment to all. The commonly known cuisines are Idli sambhar, dosa, uttapam, medu wada… But Kerala has lot more to offer in its plate which can be tasted only in Kerala local homes.

Breakfast.
Here are few traditional Kerala Breakfast items. These are usually served with Vegetarian Chutneys and Curries. When you have guests or for special occasions, you can serve Breakfast with Non Vegetarian dishes like Fish Molee, Chicken Curry etc.

1. Rice Puttu

2. Rava Puttu
3. Uppumavu
4. Idiyappam
5. Palappam (Kerala Rice Crepes)
6. Appam
7. Ada (Coconut Pancake)
8. Wheat (Godhambu) Vellayappam.

Side Dish for Breakfast.

1. Cheru Payaru (Green Gram) Curry
2. Kadala (Bengal Gram) Curry
3. Thenga Chammanthi (Coconut Chutney)
4. Kunjulli Chammanthi
5. Ulli Chammanthi (Onion Chutney)
6. Fish Molee
7. Kerala Chicken and Potato Curry
8. CheruPayaru Stew (Mung Bean Stew)

1. Appetizers.

Cutlets form the main appetizer for any Kerala Christian Wedding or Party. Kappa or Tapioca/Yuca is also served as an appetizer.

1. Fried Shrimps

2. Ulli Sarlas
3. Kerala Beef Fry (Ularthiyathu)
4. Spicy Beef/Pork Fry (Irachi Varuthathu)
5. Kerala Chicken Stir Fry (Kozhi Varattiyathu)
6. Kappa Chenda (Boiled Yuca with Red Chilly Dip)
7. Karimeen Varuthathu (Pearl Spot Fry)

2. Kerala Style Bread with Curry.
After appetizers, the next round begins with a Kerala style Bread or Idiyappam served with a nice vegetarian or non-vegetarian curry. For many weddings and parties, after the round of Appams, Bakery Bread (Rotti) is served with another side dish.

Kerala Breads.

1. Palappam (Kerala Rice Crepes)
2. Appam
3. Coconut Ada
4. Idiyappam
5. Wheat Vellayappam
6. Kerala Porotta

3. Main Course.

Main Course is usually Plain Rice served with one main Gravy (Chaaru Curry), one or more Vegetarian Sides, and one or more Non Vegetarian Sides. In addition to rice, you can also have Tapioca (Kappa/Yuca). On special occasions, Biriyani, Pulav or Ghee Rice is served along with side dishes. Depending on the occasion and the guests you can decide the items.

1. Kappa Puzhukku (Seasoned Tapioca)
2. Kappa Erachi (Tapioca with Beef)
3. Pidi (Kerala Style Rice Dumplings)
4. Kerala Fish Biriyani
5. Ghee Rice (NeyChoru)

Side dish for Biryani.

If you are making Chicken Biryani, then you can chose a side dish like Fish Fry or Beef Fry. If your making Fish Biryani or Egg Biryani, then Chicken Fry will be a good choice. Remember to serve a Raitha, Pappadam and Pickle with the Biryani.

1. Kerala Fish Fry
2. Kerala Beef Fry
3. Spicy Beef/Pork Fry (Irachi Varuthathu)
4. Kerala Chicken Stir Fry (Kozhi Varattiyathu)
5. Kerala Chicken Fry

Side Dish for Tapioca (Kappa) and Pidi.

The most common combination is Tapioca and Fish Curry. You can also have Chicken Curry or Beef Curry with Tapioca.

1. Kerala Fish Curry
2. Netholi Fish Curry (Kozhuva/Anchovy Curry)
3. Simple Prawns Curry
4. Spicy Kerala Chicken Masala
5. Kerala Chicken Gravy
6. Kerala Style Chicken Curry for Pidi

Gravies or Curries for Plain Rice.

Plain Rice is usually served with a nice Gravy or Chaaru Curry.

1. Dried Prawns Mango Curry (Chemmeenum Mangayum)
2. Seasoned Buttermilk (Moru Kachiyathu)
3. Pulissery
4. Spinach Lentil Curry (Cheerayum Parippum)
5. Kerala Sambar
6. Tomato Rasam
7. Thakkali Curry (Tomato Curry)
8. Kerala Mushroom Curry
9. Vellarikka Moru Curry

Non Vegetarian Side Dish and Curries for Rice.

1. Kerala Fish Fry
2. Fried Anchovies (Netholi/Kozhuva)
3. Kerala Fish Curry
4. Netholi Fish Curry (Kozhuva/Anchovy Curry)
5. Kerala Beef Fry (Ularthiyathu)
6. Spicy Beef/Pork Fry (Irachi Varuthathu)
7. Pork Ularthiyathu (Kerala Pork Stir Fry)
8. Kerala Chicken Stir Fry (Kozhi Varattiyathu)
9. Mutta Chikkiyathu – Scrambled Eggs
10. Unakka Chemmeen Podichathu

Vegetarian Side Dish for Rice.

1. Cabbage Thoran
2. Beans Thoran
3. Cabbage Carrot Thoran
4. Ivy Gourd Thoran
5. Aviyal
6. Beans Mezhkkupuratti
7. Spinach Thoran
8. Achinga Mezhkkuperatti
9. Mushroom Theeyal
10. Pavakka (Bitter Gourd) Thoran

And it’s not over yet … Kerala still has lots to offer in festivals, traditional wear, beautiful architecture and more… I hope I have covered sufficient...
But unfortunately we end our Memorable Journey of Exploring Kerala with colors and pictures. See you in my next “Lost In Wonderland - Kerala” a travel blog about four friends lost in dreams of Kerala.

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